Topic Summaries

Case study – tropical storms

IGCSE > Geography > CIE > IGCSE Geography Topic Summaries > Responding to tropical storms > Case study – tropical storms
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Weather hazards and atmospheric circulation

Tropical storm hazards

Responding to tropical storms

Hot desert ecosystems

Cold environment ecosystems

Glacial landscapes

Glacial landform processes

Water supply

Energy supply

Tyhpoon Haiyan (2013)
Key details
  • Date: 2 November 2013
  • Origin: Western Pacific Ocean
  • Moved over the Philippines at 313 km/hr
Primary effects
  • Deaths: 6,300 lives were lost.
  • Food shortages: rice crops and coconut plantations were destroyed, leading to a lack of food.
  • Homes destroyed: 1.4 million homes and properties were damaged, leaving many people homeless
Secondary effects
  • Landslides and blocked roads: heavy rainfall caused landslides, blocking roads, and delaying aid.
  • Homelessness and job loss: millions of people lost their homes and jobs, adding pressure on household incomes.
  • Illnesses from dirty water: The lack of clean water led to the spread of diseases such as cholera.
  • Widespread societal impact: 14 million people were affected by the typhoon, including those who lost loved ones, homes, or livelihoods.
Immediate responses
  • International aid: shelter kits were delivered to the Philippines by the UK and Canada. The USA and Japan sent water and essential household items.
  • Evacuation centres: approximately 1,200 evacuation centres were set up or displaced people.
  • Field hospitals: built to treat the injured.
  • Temporary shelters: temporary shelters were provided for people who were displaced or homeless.
Long-term responses
  • Cyclone shelters: cyclone shelters were constructed to protect people from future storms.
  • Restoration of livelihoods: rice farming and fishing industries were swiftly restored to support the economy and jobs.
  • International aid: the UN and other countries donated financial aid, medical support, and resources to help with long-term recovery.

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